80s fever hits the Belgrade Theatre with the new UK tour of Flashdance starring Strictly Come Dancing’s Joanne Clifton. Striking some fierce moves, this feel-good spectacle tells the story of a young girl with big dreams to make it as a dancer.
Alex Owens works as a steel welder in a man’s world but dreams of a career in dance. Working long day shifts at the steelworks then heading to the club to dance at night, she dreams of joining prestigious dance school Shipley Dance.
Joanne Clifton is electric as Alex Owens, she brings immense energy and characterisation to the role. With a fiery spirit and bold attitude, she is a strong woman that doesn’t take no for an answer. Clifton is a real triple threat, her belting vocals and flawless movement is simply mesmerising. She’s slick, sassy and has sublime stage presence.
Alex Owens’ love interest in the show Nick Hurley is played by A1 Boyband member Ben Adams. The pair have a strong chemistry and sound that blends together excellently in their high-powered duets. The pair meet when Nick Hurley is Alex’ boss as he is in-line to own the steelworks, charming her with his charisma, she falls for him but remains the dominant character in the relationship.
For a show about dance, there is a tremendous amount of it that is of a remarkable quality. Joanne Clifton transfers her dancing skills from ballroom to contemporary with ease and her energy never falters. Standing out for her phenomenal dance skill and presence is Demmileigh Foster who shines in the role of Tess, bringing so much passion to her movement.
Choreographer Matt Cole has done a truly tremendous job in capturing the essence and spirit of the 80s in these punchy, powerful dance numbers. It all builds up to Clifton’s final dance audition at the end of the show that is a captivating climax in the show.
Whilst the set is minimal, the lighting brings a huge amount of colour and vibrancy to each scene. Although the show’s pace needs tightening in the second act, it’s a dynamic production that is guaranteed to be a fun night out at the theatre. It’s the perfect introduction to musical theatre for first-time
Flashdance is a fun, fearless and feel-good production that showcases the beauty of
On at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry until the 8th of September before continuing on tour across the UK.
